Annual Scientific Meeting Sessions

"Older Adults and Cancer: Building the Research and Clinical Care Infrastructure for an Aging Population" Momentum Discussion at GSA's 2018 Annual Scientific Meeting Moderator: Harvey Jay Cohen Panelists: Harvey Jay Cohen, Elana Plotkin, Peggy Burhenn As a result of improvements in treatment and supportive care, the number of older cancer survivors is increasing, including many with comorbid conditions that complicate treatment plans. Frequently, because of the lack of research into the care of older adults with cancer and comorbid conditions, clinicians find themselves unprepared to assess and manage these complex patients. Older adults are often underscreened for cancers, the conditions are understaged when they are found, and treatment is often less aggressive than in younger individuals or not provided at all. This session will examine the relationship between aging and cancer, as well as ways that cancer research, prevention, and care can be improved for older adults. Supported by Pfizer.

"Cancer in a Gerontological Context," editorial appearing in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences (Volume 70, Issue 6, June 2015)

Interest Group

Cancer and Aging: Advancing age increases risk of cancer. Simultaneously, age-related conditions may complicate cancer recovery and pose a lifelong challenge. The Cancer and Aging Interest Group brings together a multidisciplinary group, including clinicians, basic and social/behavioral scientists, public health practitioners, advocates and educators, to address cancer and aging across the cancer continuum. Together, we seek to identify challenges and opportunities at the intersection of cancer and aging and translate lessons from bedside to the community for older cancer survivors and their families.